Status of available micronutrient cations in the soils of Kerala

Abstract

Fourhundred and seventyeight soil samples collected from all over Kerala State, were analysed for available zinc, copper, iron and exchangeable manganese. The pH and organic carbon of the soils were also determined. Available copper was found to b3 deficient in all the districts of Kerala. Available zinc and exchangeable manganese also were found deficient in many districts. The status of available iron was quite good in all the districts and might be reaching toxic levels in some areas. The relationship of micronutrients with pH, and organic carbon were discussed. The study highlights the necessity to investigate the nature of organic matter in relation to micronutrient availability, so that appropriate maas'jres can bs adopted for lessening fixation of micronutrients applied to soil.